Regardless of whether or not you’re in/have been to the US, how often do you crave its fast food?

I’m busy collecting data for my survey on the Gross National Waistline – a gloomy double entendre if I’ve ever read one – and would like to know. Even when you’re surrounded by local offerings, do you still turn on the radar for the predictable chains? Then again, maybe it’s becauseof the regional delicacies that you’ll cave in and snack on a familiar hamburger or transparent pouch of french fries.

The only thing they lack is a kitchen. That, and self-assurance. Other than that, it’s about as welcoming as many other restaurants in Addis Ababa. You might walk into a place thinking it’s only a bar, but do ask about food. They’re likely all out of it.

In other words, genuine US fast food isn’t quite present in Addis Ababa. Starbucks might have the toughest time, since the arguable origin of coffee is Ethiopia, and coffee ceremonies are a daily occurrence in the country.